Female genital cutting refers to procedures in which the female genital organs are altered or removed. It is often referred to as "genital mutilation." However, many affected individuals perceive this term as devaluing their bodies and therefore reject it.
In Germany, too, girls and women have to undergo genital mutilation. Non-governmental organizations estimate that approximately 20.000 women undergo genital mutilation. Around 4.000 girls and women are considered at risk.
Female genital mutilation is a serious human rights violation and can be recognized as a reason for refugee status in an asylum application. However, many affected individuals find it difficult to discuss it without psychological support, so genital mutilation is often not mentioned (in a timely manner) in the asylum application.
An empirical study on genital mutilation in Germany, German Network to End Female Genital Mutilation (Integra), Freiburg 2017
German Network to Overcome Female Genital Mutilation www.netzwerk-integra.de
Female Genital Mutilation. An information leaflet for physicians and counselors using information from the United Nations World Health Organization., Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSFJ), Berlin 2005
Information and advice center for migrant and refugee women www.agisra.org
The following federal associations are members of the Women’s Shelter Coordination Association
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